The Southland Rodeo Association is expecting another big crowd for its annual event this weekend.

Last year saw record numbers through the gate of more than 4000 people, with plenty of action from the bucking bulls to entertain everyone.

Now in its 67th year, the Southland Rodeo is part of the Southern circuit, along with Lawrence, Outram Mataura, Wanaka, Millers Flat and Ranfurly.

New president Jordon Cook said riders are all aiming for qualification at the national event in March at Waikouaiti, with hundreds of competitors coming from all over New Zealand.

This weekend there are two chances to make qualification - firstly at the rodeo in Outram on Friday and then in Invercargill on Saturday.

“The calibre of bucking bulls this season is very good,” he said.

Last year at the Southland Rodeo they had 90 point bull rides from some of the elite riders, as a result of the “world class” bucking bulls that had been bred for the competition.

“There’s about as much action you can see on a dirt arena,” he said.

Jordan said it was also very tight competition in the women’s barrel racing event, but the clubs were all very supportive of one another, and like one big family.

Jordan replaced outgoing president Andy Scobie who moved to Central Otago, but the rest of the committee has stayed the same.

He said the club of about 30 members had quite a lot of young talent coming through and many new ones joining up this season, for a taste of the action.

“We have quite a few young bull riders hoping to progress.”

Gates open at 8:30am at the Western Equine Centre, Otatara (Sandy Point), and the action starts at 9am.  There will be plenty of Eftpos terminals this year for those who don’t want to bring cash.

Adults are $20, kids $5 and family passes $40.

Share this article
The link has been copied!